Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has launched Awiqli, the world’s first once-weekly basal insulin, in India at ₹2,611 per disposable FlexTouch pen, reducing annual injections for diabetes patients from 365 to just 52. The drug, derived from the phrase “a weekly,” will be available in pharmacies starting July 10, 2025.
How Awiqli’s Once-Weekly Insulin Works
Awiqli contains 700 units of modified insulin, priced at approximately ₹37.8 per unit. The formulation extends insulin’s half-life to over 190 hours by altering three amino acids and attaching a fatty acid, allowing slow release via blood albumin binding. Clinical trials under Novo Nordisk’s ONWARDS program, involving 4,000+ patients globally, showed superior HbA1c reduction and improved glucose control compared to daily insulin, with similar hypoglycemia risks.
Vikrant Shrotriya, Novo Nordisk India’s managing director, called the launch a “watershed moment,” emphasizing its potential to address patient hesitation toward insulin therapy. Studies indicate 93% of patients avoid insulin injections, often delaying treatment by 8–9 years, leading to irreversible beta cell loss.
India’s Diabetes Crisis and Pricing Strategy
With over 101 million diabetics and 136 million prediabetics, India is a critical market for Novo Nordisk. Awiqli’s pricing is 25–35% cheaper than second-generation insulins, aligning with the company’s strategy to boost adoption through affordability, as seen with its semaglutide drug Ozempic.
National Family Health Survey-6 (2023–24) data reveals rising diabetes prevalence: 20.9% of men and 17.8% of women aged 15+ now have high blood sugar, up from 15.6% and 13.5% in 2019–21. Experts like Dr. Anoop Misra of Fortis C-DOC highlight Awiqli’s potential to improve adherence, though Dr. Ambrish Mithal of Max Hospitals notes challenges, including longer hypoglycemia duration and missed-dose management.
Who Should Use Awiqli?
Awiqli targets type 2 diabetes patients uncontrolled by oral medications. Physicians must assess suitability, as the drug requires careful dose titration. While it offers convenience, experts stress the need for patient education to avoid complications like prolonged hypoglycemia or missed doses.
Novo Nordisk’s long-term commitment to India includes R&D in Bengaluru and offices in Delhi and Mumbai. The company aims to expand Awiqli’s availability, with early adoption hinging on physician recommendations and patient education.
